Posted in Portland
November 08, 2016
The Unrivaled Canyon Hike In Portland Everyone Should Take At Least Once
There’s a canyon hiding right in the city, and you have to visit it. Located in the heart of Reed College campus, Reed Canyon is a 28-acre watershed that is accessible via two pedestrian bridges and a land bridge. The canyon is home to Reed Lake, which is thought to be the city’s oldest naturally occurring lake. If you have never hiked through this pristine setting, home to plenty of wildlife and native plant species, you are in for a treat. Check it out this weekend and you will be glad you found this gem hiding in plain sight.
Reed Canyon was named a wildlife refuge in 1913 by the state of Oregon, giving it a 100+ year legacy as a sanctuary for animals and plants.
The most prominent feature of the peaceful hike is the expansive Reed Lake in the center of the canyon.
In the winter, the area is known to freeze and get a light dusting of snow, making the scenery all the more eye-catching.
Part of the Crystal Springs Creek and Johnson Creek watershed, the best route to take on a hike encompasses the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden and is 2.4-mile loop of easy walking.
You will see plenty of wildlife on the journey, including a variety of ducks that call the area home.
Muskrats, nutria and beavers are all know to live in the canyon as well. Keep your eyes peeled and travel quietly for the best chance at spotting one of these secretive animals.
While the land is owned by Reed College, it is free and open to everyone to explore. If you plan on hiking through Crystal Springs, admission is $4 March through Labor Day. Outside of this period, as well as on Monday and Tuesdays, the garden is free.
If you want to skip Crystal Springs, head across 28th Avenue, and travel north on the sidewalk to the campus' Bosford Drive entrance. Turn right and follow the gravel trail to descend to the canyon and begin your journey.
There are some great views waiting for you, and this easy hike will leave you excited to escape into nature again.
Have you been to Reed Canyon? What animals have you seen there? Let us know in the comments below.
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